The present invention relates to a Candida albicans gene (CSA1) encoding a surface protein. The present invention also relates to the surface protein and methods for using the protein or the gene for the detection, prophylaxis or treatment of candidal infection. The protein encoded is a surface antigen of Candida albicans yeast and mycelial forms, respectively. The mycelial surface antigen was shown to be present predominantly in the terminal third of the hyphal structures. CSA1 is a gene coding for a unique surface antigen.